Contract pressures hindered Acacia’s progressive leadership
Since our last inspection, Acacia’s senior management had evolved, with new leaders working to restore the contract’s viability and the facility’s profitability. Significant efforts were also made to recruit custodial staff and reduce vacancies that had limited service access for those in custody.
People in custody were managed well but some felt unsafe
Acacia had invested in improving its management of people in custody and addressing their diverse needs. Despite better handling of bullying, many still felt unsafe. Security processes and infrastructure upgrades were also introduced to help improve perceptions of safety.
Health services had recovered a holistic, patient-centred approach
Acacia reverted to its previous healthcare model, resulting in better staffing, retention, and morale. Dental care access was among the best in the state. Mental and psychological health services were streamlined and more responsive to patient needs. Despite high demand, addictions services remained strong. Overall, healthcare access and outcomes for people in custody had improved.
Innovative support and cultural services
Support services at Acacia had significantly improved since the last inspection, with new networks established to meet the needs of diverse prisoner groups, many showing early signs of success. A strategic plan is needed to consolidate this progress, particularly by finalising the Aboriginal Prisoner Strategy to sustain gains in cultural support. However, despite service improvements, quality-of-life issues had declined, with concerns about deteriorating living conditions, frequent lockdowns, and poor food quality and quantity.
Innovative programs, employment, and reintegration opportunities
Acacia maintained strong delivery of criminogenic programs despite cancellations, partly caused by a backlog in treatment assessments. Sentence management had improved, but better officer training and guidance were needed to strengthen case management. Education and training remained in high demand, though access was restricted by custodial staff shortages. Employment opportunities were also sought after but were only beginning to recover following the loss of industries programs.